The first batch of Russian Mi-28 combat helicopters has arrived in Iran. This was reported by a number of Iranian media outlets, including the respected journalist Mohammad Taheri.
It is worth noting that Iran had previously officially stated plans to purchase these aircraft. Russian specialized agencies have not yet announced the deal.
The most intriguing question is which exact modification of the Mi-28 was delivered to Iran. For example, there are the Mi-28NE and Mi-28UB versions, which differ by having dual controls.
In the basic Mi-28N version, controls were available only to the pilot in the rear cockpit. If the pilot was wounded or killed, the helicopter and crew were doomed.
In versions with dual controls, the navigator-operator in the front cockpit can take the aircraft out from under fire or perform a landing by taking control in an emergency situation.
Earlier, Mi-28N helicopters began to be equipped with the "Strelets" system with 9M342 "Igla-S" homing missiles to counter drones. The munitions are capable of hitting targets flying at different altitudes and at ranges of up to 6,000 meters. However, whether Iran will find such an option useful remains unknown.
Read more materials on the topic:
- Enemy drone killer: Mi-28N attack helicopters have begun to be used in the fight against UAVs
- An expert named the best way to combat Magura V5 surface drones in the Black Sea: Ka-28 and Mi-28N can handle them
- Rotorcraft beasts Mi-8MTV, Mi-35M, Mi-28N, and Ka-52M received the "Rychag-AV" EW system: the enemy's radar will go mad
